Conversation 7: Daisy and her sisters, and Daisy's date

Green: Daisy

GM: Black

April/Phoebe

((takes place after April’s Friday night date with Jonah. You just had your talk with Sasari, and are heading back to your room when Phoebe corners you outside the bar))

"Well well well," she says. "And here I thought to find you to help with April's dating woes, and I find you drinking alone with a guy. Am I the only one not getting any action around here?" she says teasingly, with the closest she comes to a smile on her lips.

"Maybe, maybe," Daisy said with a mischievous look. "He seems like a nice enough guy, so who am I to turn him down when he asks for a date? But you know, with all the guys pouring in here every day, I'll bet you could see twice as many as April without even trying. How'd her date tonight end up, anyway?"

Phoebe ignores your comment on her dating, and sighs. "Lousy, as always. She says Jonah kept staring at her cleavage. I told her not to wear such a low cut dress, but you know her. Anyway, she's in her room fuming still. I was hoping you'd help me calm her down a bit. Unless you have something better planned..."

"Nah, I was just turning in. Let's go pay her a visit, eh?" As they walk towards April's room, Daisy will say, "I mean it, though. You should really take a look around this place, see if you see anything you like. Finding a date doesn't have to be as drama-riffic as April makes it seem," she said, rolling her eyes.

Phoebe shakes her head.  "You and April make it sound so simple. I wouldn't even know where to start. I'm not about to throw myself at someone, no matter how lonely it gets..." she says, then you see her bit her lip, regretting saying too much.

She looks away, and says. "Anyway, this isn't about me."

"Fine, make it all about April again if you want," Daisy shrugged. "We'll make sure she isn't too upset, and then we'll do something about you," she grinned, pushing on April's door before Phoebe could protest.

Phoebe says nothing as the two of enter the room. You see April at a mirror, taking off some make up. She is wearing a VERY revealing blue dress, and you're glad her parents aren't around to see it.

She sees you, and says "Oh hey, there you two are. Could one of you help unzip this dress off of me?"

"What dress?" Daisy smirked, looking her up and down. "I can't find it. Maybe you forgot to put one on, and that's why Jonah got the wrong idea."

April pouts. "Not you too! The dress isn't that revealing, is it?" she asks, looking herself over in the mirror.

Phoebe chuckles. "It's the most revealing dress I've even seen. Where did you even pick this thing up?"

April frowns. "I found it at May's general store at the castle. It was a really good deal, and I love the color."

Phoebe laughs. "The color is good on you, but really, Daisy's right. A swift breeze and you'd be wearing nothing at all."

"Ok, ok," April says. "So the dress was a bad idea. Just get it off of me already."

Daisy moved forward to help unzip the questionable dress, shooting an amused look at Phoebe. "Look, April, it's not that I'm asking you to be a nun or anything, but you know how guys are. No matter how good their intentions, if you start throwing boobs around, that's all they're looking at. They can't help it. It's up to us as girls to direct their attention where we want it to go. So maybe throw a little jacket or something over it for the next one, okay? I'm guessing what, tomorrow morning?" she teased.

April gives a flirty smile. "No, not tomorrow morning. Tomorrow evening," she says, teasingly.

Phoebe sighs. "Seriously? I thought you were pissed with Jonah?"

April nods. "I am. That's why I'm going out with Damien."

"Wonderful," Phoebe says. "From the silent peeping tom to the muscle-bound womanizer. You're really on a roll."

April laughs. "I sure am! I was so furious when I left Jonah at the restaurant, I didn't notice when I bumped into Damien. He saw I was upset, and he talked with me, telling jokes until I smiled. I said he was nice and I should have gone out with him, and he said we could rectify that. So I said yes, and we're going out."

Phoebe shoots you a pleading look, and rolls her eyes.

"Well, I guess you could go out with him. He'll probably be a complete gentleman, with his mind on other things," Daisy said airily. "I'm pretty sure he's got it bad for Pearl. He's crazy loyal to her, and it's not like circumstances forced him into it. He wasn't desperate or on the run or anything. So I'm thinking there's one big reason why he followed her around like a pup. Finding her is practically all he talks about these days, you notice that?"

April tilts her head. "I don't know about that. He can't be too in love with her if he's going out with me, can he?"

Phoebe merely shrugs her shoulders. "Who knows? From what Dexter tells me, the four of them are like a family, more like siblings than lovers. Still, you can never be sure when it comes to men."

April chuckles "Ain't that the truth. But when were you talking to Dexter, hm? You have a boy toy of your own Phoebe?"

Phoebe blushes "Of course not! We were just going over military strategy, that's all! Daisy's the one with a date!"

"What's this? You holding out on me, Daisy?" April asks, one eyebrow raised.

"I was gonna tell you," Daisy shrugged. "It just sort of happened. I had a few drinks with Sasari at the bar tonight, and he asked me out. We don't even have definite plans. But hey, nothing wrong with having my first date in months. It's you two who worry me." She looked between them, smirking. "Maybe if we had Phoebe show up instead of April for half of April's dates, you would both be a little better off."

April coos. "Oh, Sasari, huh? He's the former Priest General, right? Isn't he a little um, young?"

Phoebe chuckles. "You mean old. He has a True Rune. He could be hundreds of years old for all we know."

April whistles. "A True Rune Holder? Wow, that's some catch. But doesn't that worry you, Daisy? Who knows how old or powerful he really is. What if he really is ancient or something?"

"He's not ancient. He said he was twice my age," Daisy corrected them. "That's just about what Xander said, too, so I believe it. But I don't really care how old he is. The only thing that concerns me a little is his power. I mean, you guys know I've never had anything to do with rune magic or any of that stuff. What I know is that Sasari has a True Rune, and with its power he once damaged a whole castle down to the foundations when he got pissed. I want to make sure I don't end up causing the same thing to happen here, to our castle. So I'm taking it slow with him."

April laughs. "Wow, I guess you'll just have keep him....satisfied, then, hmmmm?" April winks at you, teasingly.

Phoebe elbows her. "Behave, you. You always get like this when you have too much to drink," she says. "Anyway, I can't think something like would happen too often. I mean, if every little caused rune bearers to go nuts, we'd have 27 walking disasters everywhere and people would take more notice of something like that. Whatever happened to make him lose his cool like that must have been something serious, I would think."

"I guess that makes sense," April says. "Still, it can't hurt to be sure. You could always try asking him about it Daisy."

Daisy nodded. "I will ask him. I meant to do that tonight, but we got a little sidetracked, I guess. I just hope the subject isn't too sensitive. So April..." She grinned suddenly. "I'm all set for my date, and you for yours, but what about Phoebe? It's high time this one got out and found a good reason to smile, eh? Here's a thought. You can go on your date, April, so long as you find someone to go with Phoebe and make it a double-date."

Phoebe goes white at the prospect but April jumps on it. "Oh, that will be just what she needs!" April yells.

"W-hat?! I haven't agreed to this!"

"Well you better get used to the idea, because Daisy's right! You need to get out there more! Now all we need to do is find a guy good enough for our Phoebe. Any ideas Daisy?"

"Let's see... has to be someone smart, serious, or he'll scare Phoebe right off," Daisy said with a wink. "Ideally, I'd pick someone like Caesar. We could see if he's not too busy tonight. Or Brian? Who better than a librarian for our Phoebe?"

April laughs. "Oh, Caesar might work! Can you imagine our brainy Phoebe being a Silverberg?"

Phoebe is clearly agitated by this talk, looking back and forth from the two of you.

"I'm glad you two are having fun," Phoebe says, "but what makes you think you could convince someone like Caesar to go out with me?"

"Leave that to us!" April says. "Unless you think he's ugly or something?"

"Huh? I didn't say that!" Phoebe says.

"Ah, then you do think he's cute!" April says, giving you a wink.

Phoebe blushes. "That's not what I said either!"

"Then we have our mission," Daisy said seriously. "We'll convince Caesar to make time for a date tomorrow night. Where were you planning on going with Damien, April? We'll have to make sure it's something that Phoebe and Caesar would enjoy too."

"We were going to see a play at the new theatre that just opened up, then out to dinner at Hai Yo's. It's supposed to be a comedy, so we thought it might be good for a laugh or two. That work for you, Phoebe?"

Phoebe sighs. "I don't seem to have much choice, do I? You talk Caesar into this, and I'll go, all right?"

"Yes! It's on then," April says.

"Sounds like you're both settled, then," Daisy said, satisfied. "Now if I could just figure out what to do about Sasari... I don't really have a clue what he does for fun, if anything."

April smiles. "Well, we've already established a double date. What's to stop us from making it a triple?"

Phoebe laughs. "Might as well go for broke, eh, April? How about it, Daisy? Care to join in on the foolishness?"

Daisy thought for a moment. "Yeah, I guess so. He'd be bound to meet you two jokers anyway; might as well break it with a laugh. I'll see if he's interested. But first, shall we make sure Caesar's night is free? If it's too late tonight, we could always try him in the morning. I've lost track of time a little."

Phoebe will say "Oh, I doubt Caesar is asleep. I've seen him up much later than this working on battle plans."

April chuckles. "Is that right? Is it just me, Daisy, or did Phoebe just confess she's kept an eye on Caesar?"

Phoebe goes white. "What? That.... that's not what I meant!"

April opens the door. "Oh yeah? Sure sounds like it, doesn't it Daisy?"

"It sure does," Daisy agreed sagely, leading Phoebe out with an arm over her shoulders. "Looks like we've hit the nail on the head with this one, April. You don't have to keep things like this secret from us, Phoebe -- that's what we're here for! To make sure you finally meet your match. April, on the other hand, is searching perfectly well on her own," she said with a smirk as they made their way up to Caesar's room.

If a light is on in Caesar's room, Daisy will knock on his door, keeping a firm grip on Phoebe in case she tried to escape.

There is indeed a light on. You knock on the door, and hear Caesar yell, "Enter!"

The three of you enter, and you find Caesar looking over maps of the various areas, making markings here and there.

"Well, if it isn't the three loveliest ladies of our fair castle. What can I do for you?"

April whispers: "You hear that? Loveliest!"

Phoebe just rubs her arms, sheepishly.

Daisy chuckled and said, "You work too much, Caesar. With Royce's dragonback scouting and Dexter to help you, you shouldn't have to stay up this late looking at maps. Come out to the theatre with us tomorrow night, won't you?"

Caesar smiles. "The theater, eh? I do have a lot of work to do...but well, who am I to say no to a group of pretty ladies? Dare I ask what's the occasion?"

April smiles. "Oh, nothing much. Just a triple date of sorts. You'll be going out with Phoebe, of course."

"April!" Phoebe whispers.

"Of course," Caesar says, noting Phoebe's reaction, "Well then, ladies, Phoebe, I will see you tomorrow night."

"We wouldn't miss it," Daisy said cheerfully. "See you there!"

*********

Daisy folded her arms over her long yellow dress and smirked. "You must be ready by now, Phoebe? Or do April and I have to go in there after you?"

Phoebe comes out in a wonderful midnight blue dress, looking a bit apprehensive. "I can't believe I agreed to this. I look like an idiot."

"No, you look like a woman on a date. Quite the change from your armor, eh?" April says. ((I'm going to say April is in red, unless you have other ideas)).

"Quite. I don't understand why we need this. If our dates are going to like us, shouldn't we dress as we normally do, and not like dolls?" Phoebe says.

April sighs. "Can't you just try to enjoying yourself for once? You look good, and you're going to blow Caesar's mind."

"You really think so?" Phoebe says, looking hopeful.

"Aww, she's adorable when she's got a crush," Daisy teased. "Phoebe, think of it this way: if they're going to like you or not, do you really think it matters what you wear? If any of these three are the type to like you only when you're looking fancy, then they're in love with the clothes, not you. And then you might as well date Harold," she laughed. 

April laughs, and Phoebe chuckles.

"Harold?!" April says. "He's more feminine than the three of us combined. No thanks."

"I suppose you're right," Phoebe says. "I guess it's just nerves."

"Well, the only way you'll get over that is to get this date started. Shall we go look for the boys?" April says.

"For sure," Daisy said, leading the way towards the theatre. "I'm dying to see how Phoebe and Caesar get along, and seeing Sasari should be fun too. I mean, he's been along with us on a lot of missions these past few weeks, but we haven't had much of a chance to chat. Wonder what he thinks about Hikusaak joining up with us, eh? Let's get this thing started!"

"You said it!" April says, nodding her approval.

"Let's get this over with," Phoebe mutters.

 It's a cool evening out, but not freezing, and the sky is clear with plenty of moonlight. The three of you make it to the theater, and have no problem finding your dates waiting outside. The guys are in a various state of dress; Sasari is dressed in a traditional suit with a deep blue tie, and is clearly the best dressed of the bunch. Caesar and Damien on the other hand, are wearing white shirts and dress pants.

"There they are," April stage whispers. "Ready girls?"

"Not a chance," Phoebe says. "Let's go."

Daisy nodded and led her friends to their dates, greeting them with a casual wave. "Hey guys. Looks like we got here on time after all. Ready to head in before anyone changes their mind?" She gravitated towards Sasari with a smile.

Sasari greets you.

"Hello Daisy. It is wonderful to see you again. Though dare I ask, who is thinking of changing their mind? Certainly not me," he says, giving a flirty glance over you and your dress.

Daisy chuckled and said in a lower voice, "Between you and me, I thought I might have to carry Phoebe out here. It's not that she doesn't know how to have fun, but the girl doesn't always know what's good for her, either. 'Course, I always feel a little weird without my equipment, so there's that. But at least the Star Dragon Sword won't be butting in tonight," she laughed.

Sasari chuckles. "Yes, I suppose having a talking sword chaperone would make the night a tad more complicated, eh?" He shakes his head. "Still, Phoebe looks really nice, so I don't see what she's worried about. Though again, Caesar was looking nervous himself before you arrived..."

Just then Damien yells out "Alright, let's go have us some fun!" And he starts to lead April into the theater.

"Nervous, was he?" she chuckled as they went inside. "Glad to hear it. Phoebe'll talk more that way. Which one was it tonight again? Imperial Love?"

"Yes, tonight's play is Imperial love. I'm not familiar with this play. Do you know it?" Sasari asks, taking your hand.

((since it's a date, we can assume it would be a longer play than the ten lines you usually see))

"All I know is that someone said my dad's a character!" Daisy laughed, letting him lead her if he wished. "I haven't looked through all of the play scripts we've picked up around Harmonia, but isn't there one about you too?" she said teasingly.

Sasari chuckles. "Yes, from what I hear, I'm in "Call of the Wind" play. I think it shows next week, if you wish to go see it." he says, smiling. "Shall we head inside, before April gets too far ahead of us?"

"Sure thing. I just thought you'd want to take the lead," she grinned. "For once that I'm in a dress and not heavy armor, I figured the wizard could take point instead of the meat shield."

Sasari chuckles at the joke. "I've never cared for the term meat shield," he says, as he leads you inside. "It makes warriors sound too expendable, and as a wizard, I know too well that is not the case."

Entering the theater, you find it crowded with well dressed people. Posters for the plays are everywhere. April is ahead of you, and you see Phoebe and Caesar walking in behind you.

"Wow, this is much bigger than I thought," Sasari muses.

"Yeah, it's crazy how fast people have built up a life here. Folks are calling our library the new center of learning, Lucius' church the new center of spirituality... We've sure given people a new place to focus on now that the Crystal Valley is gone." Daisy grew quiet and said, "That reminds me, there are some refugees I need to look up sometime... Family stuff. Hey, Sasari... Hikusaak and Bryce are sort of like your relatives, right? I guess you just had a family reunion the other day."

"I suppose so," Sasari says, looking away. "It's true that I'm a clone of Hikusaak, but it's still something I struggle with to understand. I will need to confront him one day, when I'm ready..."

"Confront him...?" Daisy wondered. "Have you two ever even talked? I hope you guys are gonna get along. I mean, he's kinda like your dad, I guess."

Sasari grimaces. "Daisy, I was in the church equivlanet of an orphanage. I don't have a mother or father, and the last thing I need is to think of him like that." He says, perhaps a little too sternly. He quickly recovers though, and says. "Sorry, it's a bit of a touchy subject for me. We should probably leave it at that and go find our seats."

"Yeah... Sorry, Sasari," Daisy said quietly. "I'm used to people thinking I'm fragile when they find out my mom is dead, like Phoebe's mom too, but I'd rather just say what I think. I'll drop it if it bothers you. Lead the way."

"It's all right," Sasari says, as he leads you into the theater. "I guess I just haven't processed it all yet. I've gotten this far by not thinking about it, and having Hikusaak arrive alive really surprised me," he says, quietly. "Here we are, my dear." April and Damien are already sitting, and much to your embarrassment, already making out. Phoebe and Caesar are a little ways behind you.

Daisy grimaced, not really surprised. "Uh, are the tickets for assigned seats? I'd rather give April her privacy, if you can call it that in a public place. Phoebe, wanna sit somewhere else?"

Phoebe looks at you, puzzled. "Why wouldn't we sit with April and...." she then turns and sees them." Oh for Rune's sake, April, can't you control yourself even a little?" She says, tapping her on the shoulder. April looks up, embarrassed.

"Oh um, sorry" She says. "You guys were so far behind us, we..."

"Save it." Phoebe says. "At least try and act polite in public, will you? Honestly." Phoebe says. The three guys all have a smirk on their faces, trying not to laugh; Sasari and Caesar at least look away.

"Well, shall we sit and enjoy the play then?" Caesar will say.

You all take your seats, and a few minutes of awkward silence follow, and then the play starts.

Daisy relaxed into her seat, already writing off April and Phoebe's familiar bickering. "All right, we got in just in time," she whispered to Sasari as the curtains were pulled open. "I can't wait to see who they got to play my dad and Flik."

The play is an odd one, with such roles as Queen playing the role of Milich, Nash playing the role of Barborossa, Rico playing the role of Flik, Diaz as Viktor, Gloria playing the role of McDohl, and the gardener Zelda as the narrator. The odd cast (picked by Dice rolls) works surprisingly well, even if Rico is a little nervous playing Flik. You tend to find Diaz is a little....rougher and less friendly than your own dad would be, Diaz being an assassin and all.

Daisy leaned towards April and whispered, "Rico looks kind of uncomfortable up there, huh? I wonder how much he'd freak if your dad showed up to watch one of these days.  And Diaz just makes my dad look scary."

"That was interesting," Sasari will say. "I didn't know the 'flower general' Milich was such an important figure of the Gate Rune Wars."

"As far as I know, he wasn't," Caesar will say. "But I think Daisy here would know best, eh?"

Daisy laughed. "I've heard a few things from my dad, yeah, and he didn't mention Milich too much. But what do you expect when a fancypants like that makes himself the main character? I guess I should be happy that my dad and Flik weren't fawning over him like groupies. That reminds me, we probably shouldn't let Harold write the history of the Union Army, huh?"

She glanced over at Sasari and Caesar. "Funny to hear you guys say something like that to me, though, when you've both been in all these big-name wars, like that Grasslands war, and weren't you in Dunan for all that war with my cousin, too, Sasari?"

"Yes, I was ordered to help Luca Blight by the Order of God. It was perhaps the worse assignment I've ever had to do, helping such a monster. But the other side had too many True rune, and we feared Luca would unleash the Beast Rune if the scales were not evened out a bit, and so I was sent. Not that it did any good, as Luca did unleash the beast rune. Thousands upon thousands died that day."

Caesar nods. "Real war is hardly ever fit for stories and plays, and yet how we remember them affects history as much how the war really happens. Albert, for example, is obsessed with how he is remembered."

"That's kind of messed up," April will say.

"It's true though," Phoebe will add. "History affects us even if we don't realize it. I understand Albert's fears, but to obsess over it is folly. We have no control over it."

"Too right, Phoebe," Caesar says, looking her over.

"Well, it's not like we don't have ANY control," Daisy put in. "When you're a decent person and you fight the good fight, you'll always be a hero, like my dad. At least, that's what the people you save will think. 

"Caesar, your plans helped free the people in the Grasslands and keep them that way, and they're not gonna forget that. But your brother picked the stronger side and lost, and the country he worked for doesn't even exist anymore... And honestly, he comes off as kind of an ass," Daisy said unapologetically. "I think Albert could use some pointers from you on PR, if he'd ever take them."

"Albert, take lessons from me? I doubt his pride would allow that. He thinks himself the better, and by the book, he probably is. He has a better memory than I do. But he underestimates people too often, and it's his downfall. He's improving lately though, so maybe he's learning after all."

"Generals can only do so much. It's how people perceive us how 'good' we are," Sasari says. "In Harmonia, I was a hero. In Dunan, a villain. Who knows how we'll be perceived in this new country?"

"Eh, I'm with Daisy. If we do good, the people will know it. That's good enough for me."

"And me," April says.

"People have short memories anyway, and they just remember what they wanna believe," Daisy said thoughtfully. "Take Luc, for example. In Toran and Dunan, he's one of the heroes. Those are the stories I always heard growing up. So he seems to have gone a little off the deep end and done some bad things in the Grasslands? I didn't know until I talked to Leknaat the other day... and maybe I won't remember that, and I'll just think of him as one of the guys in my dad's stories. That's how I see it."

She glanced at Sasari and smiled. "As for you, you're one of the good guys now, remember? You're on the right side of history. Anyway, you're a whole lot more than Harmonia made you, if you ask me."

Phoebe nods. "History is fickle, that's all there is to it. But enough chat. Shall we head to dinner? I made reservations for Hai Yo's restaurant. There should be little chance of a cooking battle at this hour, so Daisy will be free," Phoebe says, and Damien chuckles.

"Yes, let's go. This belly ain't going to fill itself!" Damien says.

"Must be tough to be a chef of Hai Yo's reputation," Daisy chuckled, following them to the restaurant. "Always interrupted by this or that challenger. I guess that's how we know we recruited the best! Anyway, I'm itching to try out that tempura-don that Harold always goes on about."

"Hm, it has quite the reputation. When I served with Highland, we heard many reports of the food of Hai Yo's first restaurant. It drove me crazy at the time, hearing the locals talk so highly of the then enemy. Even the spies we sent into their camp came back raving of the food! It was a bit ridiculous. So yes, I admit I have high expectations of tonight," Sasari chuckles, and squeezes your hand.

Daisy smiled back at him. "I'll admit this date was a little longer in coming than I expected, what with the pace of this war and all. But at least we've had the chance to see more than a few battles together, eh? Nothing like fighting alongside some good friends and family, right ladies?"

"Amen!" April yells out, and Phoebe chuckles, but nods. You make it to the restaurant, and Sasari opens the door for you all.

"Welcome to Hai Yo's. Party of six, yes?" The waitress asks, recognizing you, and leads you to your seats. 

"I knew it was a good idea to make the reservations in Daisy's name," Phoebe says. "You are quite known here, helping out Hai Yo all the time."

"Oh? Are you a chef as well, Daisy?" Sasari asks.

"A chef?" Daisy scoffed. "Not hardly. I admire Hai Yo's skills and I like helping out, but being an assistant cook is about all I'm cut out for. Except for cooking for myself on the trail, the only cooking I did before Hai Yo arrived was with Des. Have you heard from your mom lately, April?" she added as an afterthought.

April looks sad, then says. "No, it's weird. This is the longest I've ever gone without hearing from her. Dad says he heard from her, and that she was going to be really busy, but still...it worries me."

"What does your mom do, April?" Caesar will ask.

"It's a looong story, Caesar, and even I don't know all of it. It's complicated." she says simply.

"Sounds like," Damien adds, rubbing her back.

"Hi there!" the waitress says. "Can I get your orders? I can put in appetizers, main dishes, drinks, whatever. Here at Hai Yo's, we give you our all!" she says, happily.

"One Lasagna, please, with Wine," Caesar will have.

"I'll try the Chef's salad, with a diet soda" April will say.

"I'll take an order of Filet Mignon, with some beer" Damien will say.

"Just an order of Steve Soup for me, with an iced tea" Phoebe will order.

Sasari will go first. "I am going to try this Tempura-don with some wine, and I believe my date will be having the same, yes?" he asks you, giving you the chance to correct him.

"Heck yeah I'm trying the tempura-don!" Daisy agreed. "I'll have a root beer for my drink, please." She smirked at Phoebe. "I know it isn't the first time anyone's ordered it, but it sounds funny to have someone using the recipe I essentially wrestled a guy to get."

April chuckles. "Man, I wish I could have seen that. You really should let us out on the front lines more, Daisy."

"Yes, quite," Phoebe adds. "But I won't pressure you tonight. I want to try this soup, as it's actually ranked quite highly by Aila's food critiques, saying it was the best soup she ever had."

"Hey, it's not my fault you two are more valuable elsewhere. I think Lorelai and I make a pretty good team," Daisy shrugged. "And Caesar has to be out where the action is, and Kuarjav does awesome work with Sasari's True Earth Rune boosting his... We can't take everyone, I guess."

She looked around the restaurant. "I hope they bring the food quickly. When I'm the one cooking, it always feels like the whole thing goes by in seconds."

"I'm sure it does, but Hai Yo's not just cooking for four people tonight, he has an entire restaurant full. It may take some more time," Caesar says. "Or maybe not? Who knows how good he really is, eh?"

Sasari will look right at you, and say. "I for one could stand to be in your company a little longer, Daisy."

"Oh I don't know, I can think of a few places I'd rather be," Damien gives April a flirty wink, and she laughs.

"Behave, you," she chuckles.

The dessert comes out, and your order of "ice cream' comes out to be a 5 scoop sundae with more fixings than you knew existed.Caesar has ordered a miniature gingerbread house that looks amazing, like a replica of the castle. April has ordered a strawberry cheesecake that looks like a quarter of an entire cake. Phoebe has ordered the fruit fondue, with a big plate of fruits and various dipping sauces. Damien has ordered the chocolate cake, which again looks like a quarter of the entire cake. Sasari has gone with a slice of Apple pie, the same size as the rest.

"And here I thought the meal was amazing," Caesar says. "The artwork of this gingerbread house is amazing."

"And the portions! How am I ever going to eat all this?" April laughs. "I'm going to have to have one hell of a workout to burn this off." Damien nearly chokes on his cake, his mind going to the bedroom, of course.

Daisy chuckled and started to eat the cherries first. "They should have warned us that any of these desserts could feed pretty much everyone, eh? This is pretty good, though. I never ate like this as a traveling merc, obviously. But fancy food can be good sometimes. Is this how you always get to eat, Sasari?"

"Oh no," he says, quickly. "The Temple made sure we ate a strict diet of just what was needed so we'd be lean and strong. We'd only get food like this if we needed to do a political meeting, and then you're too nervous to appreciate the food as it might be poisoned. I've never seen anything like this," he points around the table, astounded. 

"I don't think there's any other place like this on the planet," April says, biting into hers. "This is divine."

"Was poisoning such a big worry for you guys?" Daisy exclaimed. "Sounds like a lot of stress. Let's hear it for our defensive ninjas, I guess."

She popped another spoonful of ice cream into her mouth. "So what was it like, anyway, having that much status as a priest general? And for decades, I guess. I've always been pretty used to not being recognized wherever I go."

"It's not as great as other might make it out to be. Having to always be on guard, having your every word analyzed for a secret meaning, having to represent the then most powerful nation in the world... it wasn't easy. It's almost a relief to have that part of my life over, and yet... I'm not sure where things will go from here. I'll fight to protect this land, and then? Who knows," Sasari says. "I guess it’s part of my selfish reasons for going on this date, my dear. I don't mean to put pressure on you, but in my own way I'm searching for something to hold onto after this war is over, something that matters to me personally. I don't know if this date will lead to that, mind you, but one has to search, right? That's what I'm doing. And I'm told by many there isn't a better place than in the company of a beautiful woman, so here I am," he says, looking at you.

"And you're really trying to tell me a smooth talker like you has ever been short of beautiful women?" Daisy smirked. "I guess I see what you mean, though. With us finally going on the offensive inside Camaro, it feels like this thing can actually be won, and then what? Me and the girls have always traveled, going wherever the fighting took us, but things can always change if something holds you." She glanced over at her sisters and their dates, the thought not really occurring to her that she could be one of the ones held in place one day.

"Well, yes, I suppose I could have had many a woman back in the day. But they didn't want me. They wanted my power, my prestige, my money. That's not what I wanted. You're the first woman who seemed interested in me, and not the trappings of my status. To be honest, I'm not sure exactly how to respond to that. It's...different. I'm learning, and well, finding it to be enjoyable. You?" Sasari asks.

Daisy poked absently at her ice cream. "Heh. I've had a few dates, sure -- I mean, the world's never had a shortage of soldiers. But it's never been too serious. The war ends, and people move on. I guess things might've been different if my mom had lived, but I never had a permanent home, or even my own room before now," she laughed. 

"I guess it's been a bit of the opposite for you, working for Harmonia your whole life. I can't imagine you hitting the road and going wherever the fighting is. You're powerful, but you don't NEED the fight, do you?" She gazed at him thoughtfully.

"The fight itself? No, I take no pleasure from fighting. I believe in a philosophy long since dated, that says 'To swing a sword is one of the most evil things a man can do. So when you swing a sword, make sure you take more evil out of this world than what you put into it.' I will gladly fight to defend others, but I take no please in ending lives. I like to think every person has something worthwhile to give this world, some gift that could make this world a better place. And every life I end just makes this world worse. I fight, Daisy, but only as a last resort. Does that make sense?"

Daisy smiled at him, chin in hand. "With a philosophy like that, I'm sure Fred and Rico would be glad to have you when this war is over. Sasari the knight. It's good to have ideals, I guess. I think I was eleven when I killed my first soldier; idealism isn't something I've had much time or reason to worry too much about. But maybe now that I'm older, I should lay down a philosophy of my own... I wonder if I'm knight material, heh."

Sasari laughs at the idea of him being a knight. "I don't know if I'm ready to be a knight, but I do appreciate their sentiments. You don't need a philosophy or get hung up on ideals, Daisy. I've seen you fight for some time now, remember? Even when you had the chance to kill enemies, like those St. Anicets, or Grant, you chose to capture rather than kill. Whether you know it or not, there is a goodness in you. That's the important thing. At least, that's how I think," he says.

"If that's what you want to call it," Daisy chuckled. "I guess my philosophy is actually to be like my dad, but even better. Dad's called a hero in at least two countries because he fought for what's right and helped make people free. He's always cared a lot about helping people. So I can appreciate how much helping the people of former Harmonia means to you," she smiled.

"Do you? I'm glad. We do seem to have a lot in common, my dear," Sasari smiles at you. "You're quite stunning, Daisy."

Daisy grinned. "You're not so bad yourself, Sasari. Now, I don't know about you, but I have had more than enough dessert for one night. And I'll bet at least a few people could use some time alone," she added, glancing at her sisters. "Wanna go for a walk or something?"

"That sounds wonderful," Sasari replies. Soon after the bill is paid, and the three couples each go their own way. You see Phoebe and Caesar head north, and you get the feeling they are heading to the library. April and Damien head northeast, towards the castle proper. You and Sasari then head east, going towards the line of shops, though most are closed now.

"This Castle has a lot to offer, doesn't it? Sasari says, looking around. "It's amazing how a place can build up so fast by simply welcoming all people. You and your companions have managed quite a job well done, Daisy."

"You'd be amazed at how easy it is, when it comes right down to it, to create something like this," she commented, taking in the long line of businesses they had now. "I honestly never saw much of Harmonia before we started this war, but it's obvious that things needed to change, badly. Almost everyone jumped at the chance to help us. I have to admit, though, I was a little hesitant about recruiting so many former priest generals at first. I was afraid you were all trying to infiltrate the army one by one until you outnumbered us," she smiled teasingly.

"Oh darn, you found us out," he says wryly. "All those battles we lost on purpose were for naught!" he says sarcastically, and overacting it too. He then laughs at himself. 

Daisy laughed at him too, though she'd neglected to mention that, as the enemy she'd heard the most about, Sasari had been the recruit she'd been most reluctant to trust when he'd first appeared. "But I guess it worked out after all," she said out loud. "Even letting the former emperor join up, too, in a moment of utter insanity. I'd be glad that he's offered his help, but I'm still not sure what's to keep that Circle Rune of his from screwing this land all over again when this is through."

"Well, for starters, he is no longer tied to this land, this country. As its head, he WAS the country, if that makes sense. He founded the country using the rune's power, and thus bound the empire to the rune’s will. But that empire is gone now, and without using the rune again, it won't come back to haunt us anymore. Of that, I'm certain," Sasari will say.

"Even if Hikusaak isn't planning on taking over again once we've finished pushing Camaro back out of his country," Daisy said, not sounding entirely convinced, "that's still one scary rune he's carting around. If I understand it right, it means that no matter how hard someone tried to build a new country, the power of the rune will eventually destroy it. I hope no one ever uses that rune again."

"I don't know, the rune must have its uses. All the True Runes do. I admit I don't understand the Circle Rune all that well, but there must be a way to help the country without dooming it later. If Hikusaak had more time before the rune changed phases, maybe we wouldn't be in this war now. Who is to say? Maybe it was meant to be this way for a reason we don't know," he says, wistfully.

"Are you a fan of fate, like Leknaat? I guess without the Circle Rune you would never have existed," she said. "Actually, there was something I've been meaning to ask you about that. That incident I heard about where you got so mad that you damaged the palace... Was that when you found out you were a homunculus?" she guessed.

Sasari chuckles. "Close. I found out before, but i didn't believe it. I didn't have time to digest it when Luc told me, so I put it off. After Luc died, I went back to the palace and confronted the Order of God about it. They confirmed what Luc told me, and I.... lost it. I was so mad my rune acted out on its own, doing what I couldn't. Oddly enough, they preferred to keep me in the field after that. Can't imagine why, can you?" He gives you a grin, looking quite pleased with himself.

Daisy nodded. "Those old men didn't know what they were messing with, trying to manipulate the lives of people with True Runes. They got just what they deserved. I wish Luc would have come to a different conclusion as to what to do with his life when he found out, but I'm glad you're getting your chance to find your own way now, huh? People in Harmonia are going to need you for really different reasons than the Order of God did, I guess."

"I don't know about that. I will help end this war, but after that, I'm thinking of leaving Harmonia. I've done too much, been part of the old 'system' for too long. Once I know the people are secure, people like myself and Hikusaak need to disappear, and let the new leaders take over. I just don't know where I'd go yet."

Daisy tilted her head and said, "I don't know that anyone would resent you for what you've done up until now. I know you're older than me, but you're talking like an old man being forced into retirement. You're saying that even if the people who live here asked you to stay, you would still have to go?"

"I don't honestly know," Sasari says. "Still, I can't imagine being asked to stay. Under the Order of God, I was made into be a symbol of fear in Harmonia, a Priest General with a True Rune. This life is all I've ever known, and now it's over. I'm not saddened by that, but... I feel as if I should be sad, if that makes sense? I'm leaving behind everything to start a new life, and I honestly don't even know where to begin. It's exciting in its own way, don't you think?"

"Well, yeah, I guess it would be for someone who's had such a steady life," Daisy said. "But in a way, me and my dad start a new life every time we take on a job. We don't always know who we'll be working with, or for, or exactly where we'll be from one day to the next... but then, we'll always have places like Muse to return to for a rest, and we have friends all over the world. It's something you'll get used to... if you want to come with us." Daisy smiled at him. "This was fun. We should do it again sometime, Sasari."

"Travel with you, eh? That could be very nice, Daisy. I have enjoyed this evening even more than I thought I would. I didn't think that possible, but....you've proven me wrong. Get some rest, my dear, and I we can return to battle on the morrow." At that, he will bend over and kiss your hand all polite like, and turn to leave.

Daisy gave his hand a squeeze when he kissed hers and said, "I'll see you tomorrow, Sasari. And if you ever want to meet up between battles again, you know where to find me." She smiled and returned to her room, wondering if April's date, for one, would be ending quite so politely.

Conversation 6: Daisy and Ardith/Serena

Green: Daisy

GM: Black

 

As you walk out of the dungeon where your grandparents lay, you run into Xander on the way up. "Hey there, Daisy. Have a minute?"

Daisy scratched her head and shook out her shaggy hair, putting the encounter with her grandparents out of her mind. "Sure thing, Xander. What's up? Please don't tell me you dug up some of my cousins or something, because I've had enough 'touching' family reunions for one day."

"Actually, I have done just that, and found out a bit about your Ardith guy, too. But if you don't want to hear about some of your not so crazy relative, it's your call..." he trails off, letting you decide.

"Eh... sure, tell me what you know about my relatives, but looking for Ardith comes first," she said after a moment. "All right, lay it on me."

"Alright, here it is. First off, your Ardith guy? Got a tip from a friend of mine, and it seems he's working for the government of Falena now as some high ranking official. "Official envoy to the Queen" as it's called, which basically means he's a royal adviser with the queen's personnel backing. From what I can gather, he's spending a lot of time in the palace, and researching the Sindar, and the abundance of Sindar ruins in the Falena area. To what end, I don't know. It might be a royal job, as they do a lot of that, or it could be personal."

He takes a breath.

"As for your uncle, his name was Simon, and yeah, from what I can tell, your grandparents ate the poor bastard. Found some human bones with bite marks the kind I've never seen... so yea, he's a goner. Still, you do have an aunt, technically. A woman named Fiona. Simon married her in secret behind his parents' back, and from what I can gather they didn't approve when they found out. You may have actually already met her, as she runs the Rune shop in Delon. Quite the pretty lady, but not high enough on the social standing list for your parents' taste. They had two kids too, a daughter named Penelope, and a son named Paul. Penelope's about 18, and Paul's 16. None of them know what happened to Simon yet, and I didn't know if you'd want me to break the news to them, or if you'd like to do the deed yourself."

"Crap... Nah, I might as well tell them," Daisy sighed. "How long ago was Simon killed? Maybe I should have some good news to give them when I deliver the bad..." She glanced back down the stairs and flexed her fingers. 

"I wonder why Ardith is studying the Sindar. I'll have to ask him myself. You do good work, Xander."

"I do what I can. It's not easy getting sources all the way from Falena, or finding a single family in a war zone. But once I take a case, I always finish it. Well, see ya round, Daisy," he says, and walks off.

Daisy waved goodbye as the detective walked away, and shook her head. "Falena, huh? This is gonna be a long trip."

"A long trip, my child?" You will hear the voice of Leknaat, and realize that you have walked straight to her without planning it. "I will be more than happy to assist you, of course. Where do you need to go? I shall guide you."

"Oh, hi Leknaat," Daisy said, glad that she had chosen this particular route. "I need to go to Falena for a bit. Right to the royal palace, I guess. I'll have to take the Blinking Mirror to get back, too. Would you mind? Please?"

"Not at all. I shall teleport you outside the gates. Teleporting into the building might surprise the guards, and we couldn't stand to lose one of our shining stars."

She smiles, and then teleports you. You arrive in Falena at the capitol, and find it to be a huge city, worthy of being a capitol. The palace looms before you...

Daisy looked around curiously, this being her first time in Falena, but she didn't want to waste too much time. She strolled up to the gates of the palace and addressed one of the guards. 

"Hi! I wonder if you could help me," she said in a friendly tone. "I heard my friend Ardith works here, as a royal advisor? I'd really like to speak with him."

"Hm?" "You're that Eresh woman he was expecting? Not quite what I was expecting, but I was told to let you through. Master Ardith is on the third floor, fifth room on the right. Don't get lost now." The guard says, and waves you through.

"Thanks very much," Daisy said with a jaunty wave, and followed his directions inside. She counted off the doors and knocked, wondering what sort of person she was about to find. She had to remember that he had a True Rune as well...

"Is that you, Eresh? Come on in," You hear a voice say. He sounds young, but firm. As you enter you see a young man, mid twenties, dressed in black and white robes, the colors of the royal Falena family. 

"Who are you? You're not Eresh. How did you get in here?" the man asks.

Daisy shrugged and closed the door behind her. "I walked. Your guards were really helpful when I asked to speak with you. Your castle seems almost as friendly as mine! So you're Ardith, right? I've been looking for you for a while, but I'm not trying to fight you or anything, no worries. I'm a friend of Serena's."

As you start talking, Ardith looks like he might be ready to defend himself, or possibly attack. When you mention the name 'Serena' he drops his guard, and you can see you've caught him off guard.

"Serena? You know Serena? I haven't heard of her since... I mean... is she... ok?" he asks.

Daisy blinked, not expecting such a reaction. "Is she all right? She's had a pretty miserable time of it with only one leg, you know. She's got a job now with us, but it's not easy for an adventurer who can barely walk. I came here to hear about you, though. What happened to you after you got the True Rune? Why would you run off like that?"

"If you've truly seen Serena, you know what happened. I lost control of the Rune, and it cost her a leg. I...I couldn't stand to be around Serena anymore. Seeing that hurt betrayal in her eyes...knowing I had hurt the woman I loved... I couldn't bear it. I left her in the care of a skilled doctor, and took my leave. Now answer me this. Who are you? What do you mean she has a job with you? What has happened to her?" Ardith asks.

"I'm Daisy, and what happened to her was that she was left alone to deal with a disability and abandoned by her dearest friend," Daisy said severely. "That hurt in her eyes you thought you saw? What happened with the Rune was an accident that could be forgiven. But you chose to leave without a word and let her face a dangerous new world alone. When my friends and I found her, she was being tormented by thugs who saw only a helpless victim."

Ardith nearly jumps out of his skin. "What did you say? She was attacked?! Why wasn't she armed?! Is she alright?!? Answer me!" he yells, nearly panicking.

Daisy folded her arms, watching him critically. "She was attacked, but we drove them off. She's fine now, or as well as someone in her condition can be. She's working in our castle now as an appraiser since adventuring is out of her reach now. Do you really care?" she said bluntly. "Does she still matter to you?"

"Of course she matters to me! Who the hell do you think you are, coming in here and asking if I still care? It's why I'm doing everything I can to seal this cursed rune, so I can be free of this power that hurt her!"

"Cursed rune?" Daisy echoed in surprise. "That thing's not cursed. Luc might've gone a little off the deep end before he died, but I hope Leknaat would have let me know before I came here if the Wind Rune had some kind of Soul Eater thing going on.

"It's a curse that you left your good friend for the sake of it, though. When she told me about you, I know Serena just wanted to see you again, even just once." Daisy moved a little closer towards him. "I still think you're kind of a jerk, but she obviously still cares about you too. Why don't you put everything on hold here for a little bit and come to the castle with me?"

Ardith goes a little pale, and the anger drains out of him. "She wants to see me? Impossible. Not after what I did. She couldn't possibly want to see me..." he says, looking quite shocked.

Daisy took another step closer and folded her arms. "Well, she does. She cares about you, and she wants things sorted out between you. It's one of the worst things in the world to be stuck in uncertainty; until I tracked you down all the way out here, no one even knew if you were dead or alive. I promised her I would find you and bring you back."

"I see," he says simply. "Well then, which way do we go? Which 'castle' did you come from, exactly?" Ardith asks, as he scribbles a note down on his desk.

"Liberty Castle, in what used to be called Harmonia," Daisy answered, holding out a hand to him. "I don't know what kind of news you get out here, but our army has had a pretty interesting time of it lately. I can take you there fast."

"Harmonia? I doubt it will be that fast, as that's quite the long way. I've heard of the wars up there, but I've not paid close attention to the full details. How long will this trip take? I will need to leave notice of my absence, is all."

Daisy said, a tad impatiently, "Just tell them you'll be back tomorrow. Let's not waste time; there are wars to fight. Just take my hand before I decide to tell Serena I never found you, okay?"

Ardith will quickly follow after you. "Tomorrow? And how do you propose we travel thousands of miles and back by tomorrow?"

"Like this," Daisy said simply, and she took him by the arm before activating the blinking mirror.

You appear by the shops, and Ardith looks around, amazed. "Incredible! Such skill with teleportation magic... you don't seem like a mage, and yet you have such an artifact? That's not normal. Just who are you, really now?" he asks, wondering how you have such power and connections.

Daisy started for Serena's shop. "I told you, I'm Daisy. What more do you want? Daisy Saint-Anicet, daughter of Viktor, chief ass-kicker of the Union Army. When you're ready to go, I'll introduce you to Leknaat, and she can send you anywhere you'd like to go; I don't know a thing about rune magic stuff. Hey, Serena!" she called out without pause.

Ardith follows you as you talk, not wanting to get left behind. When you call out for Serena, you hear him gasp as he sees her. Serena looks up from the counter, and her jaw nearly drops when shes sees him.

"Ardith?"

"Serena?" The two ask, nearly in unison.

They stare at each other, neither sure what to say, the tension being thick enough you could cut it with your sword.

Daisy grinned. "Don't you both get so shy that you clam up, now. Serena, I kept my promise. I found him in Falena. Ardith, you were chatty enough just a minute ago -- why don't you start with an apology?"

"Ardith... it's really you," Serena says, trying to break the ice.

"Yeah... Serena, I'm so sorry. I can never apologize enough for what I did. I couldn't control the rune and..."

"Oh hush, I know what happened. I was there, remember? I'm not so mad about that as you leaving. How could you do that to me, Ardith?"

"I'm sorry," he says. "I didn't think you'd want me around, since I cost you your leg."

"Now if that's not the stupidest thing I've ever heard, I don't know what is," Serena says. "I needed your help so much then, and you weren't there. Where have you been?"

"Falena," he says. "I've been looking for a way to destroy these true runes like the past owner of this rune, but everything I find leads to mass death. That's not a price I'm willing to pay."

"You want to destroy them...?"

"Yes, but that's another story. We have so much catching up to do, thanks to your friend here," he points to you.

"Yes, I can't thank you enough Daisy. I don't know how you did but, but you kept your promise. Thank you."

Daisy gave a little salute and headed for the door. "You got it, Serena. This guy's got a lot to answer for, if you ask me. If you need any help dealing with him, just say the word," she added, glaring meaningfully at Ardith. "And Ardith, there are plenty of people here who knew Luc before he died -- you have a chat with them before you do anything drastic with that rune, ok? Catch you two later."

What could it be? It's a...a...update!

Hi all! The site is updated once more, from war battle teams, to NPC bonus's, Stars of destirny, newspaper, liberty castle, mini game, Ramza's rumors, old books, and bath scripts. The comment box will be updated later.

I will send out an email of this, but make your FINAL war teams when you can. The last war battle is coming up!